Why Go to Rapid City
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Rapid City is the gateway to the Black Hills and some of America's most iconic landscapes. In western South Dakota, it makes the perfect base for a road trip filled with monuments, wildlife and wide-open spaces.
Downtown, look for life-size bronze statues of U.S. presidents on the street corners, part of the City of Presidents. Then head into the Black Hills to see the massive carvings of Mount Rushmore National Memorial and the Crazy Horse Memorial, still being carved into a mountain. Drive the scenic Needles Highway and Wildlife Loop in Custer State Park, where bison herds roam, and explore the striking canyons and spires of Badlands National Park. Wind Cave and Jewel Cave are nearby, and the Old West towns of Deadwood and Keystone add to the fun.
Rapid City has its own airport and makes a great stop on a cross-country road trip. Summer is busiest, especially during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in August. I'll plan your route, lodging and stops for an unforgettable Black Hills adventure.
BEST FOR
Road-trippers, families, history buffs, wildlife lovers and motorcyclists
BEST MONTHS
June to August
EXPLORE
- Downtown: Restaurants, shops and the City of Presidents.
- Keystone: Close to Mount Rushmore.
- Custer State Park: Rustic lodges and wildlife.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Rapid City
North America › Midwest › USA › South Dakota
Gateway to Mount Rushmore, the Badlands and the wild beauty of the Black Hills.
National Parks & Nature
History
Hiking
Monuments
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Drive Custer State Park's Wildlife Loop in the early morning or evening, when bison, pronghorn and burros are most active.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Visit for the evening lighting ceremony in summer.
Mount Rushmore National Memorial
The iconic carved faces of four U.S. presidents.
Drive the Badlands Loop Road at sunrise or sunset.
Badlands National Park
Dramatic eroded landscapes, fossil beds and wildlife.
Visit the Indian Museum of North America on site.
Crazy Horse Memorial
A massive mountain carving honoring the Lakota leader, still in progress.
Pick up a map and take a walking tour.
City of Presidents
Life-size bronze statues of U.S. presidents on downtown street corners.
Drive the Wildlife Loop Road.
Custer State Park
A beautiful park with bison herds, lakes and scenic drives.
A historic hotel with a rooftop bar and Black Hills charm.
Hotel Alex Johnson, Curio Collection by Hilton
Downtown
Hotel Tags
A comfortable hotel close to downtown attractions.
The Rushmore Hotel & Suites
Downtown
Hotel Tags
A historic lodge in Custer State Park, once known as the Summer White House.
State Game Lodge
Custer State Park
Hotel Tags
A rustic lodge overlooking beautiful Sylvan Lake.
Sylvan Lake Lodge
Custer State Park
Hotel Tags
A lodge near Mount Rushmore with mountain views.
K Bar S Lodge
Keystone
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Rapid City
High 47°F · Low 24°F · Rain 0.7 in
Cooler weather and fewer crowds.
The best time to visit Rapid City is June through August, when all attractions are open and the weather is warm. Spring and fall bring fewer crowds and beautiful scenery, while winters are cold and snowy.
Best Times to Visit Rapid City
WHEN TO GO
Where to Dine
DINING
Rapid City's food scene features hearty Western fare and local favorites.
- Bison: Try bison burgers and steaks.
- Chislic: Try South Dakota's official state snack, cubes of grilled or fried meat.
- Must-try: Bison burgers, chislic, kuchen and a local craft beer.
06
Walking
Downtown Rapid City is easy to explore on foot.
05
Buses
Rapid Transit System operates city buses.
04
Taxis & Rideshares
Taxis and rideshare apps are available in the city.
03
Tours
Guided tours visit Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse and the Badlands.
02
Driving
A car is essential for exploring the Black Hills.
01
Flying In
Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP) is about 15 minutes from downtown.
Most travelers fly into Rapid City Regional and rent a car. Once you're here, driving is the best way to explore the Black Hills and national parks.
Getting Around Rapid City